BINTULU: Special Olympics Malaysia is not only a premier sporting competition, but a powerful statement on inclusivity and untapped potential of athletes with special needs.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised that the Games go far beyond athletic competition.
He described the event as a platform that upholds human dignity and challenges society to look beyond limitations.
“Special Olympics teaches us to see ability, not disability – to value every individual as an important asset in building a more inclusive society,” he said.
His speech was delivered by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian at the opening of the Special Olympics Malaysia 6th National Games Sarawak 2026 at Dewan Suarah Bintulu on Saturday (Apr 25).
He stressed that sport serves as a vital medium for nurturing self-confidence, discipline, and resilience among athletes with special needs, while also fostering greater public understanding of their lived experiences.
He further noted that genuine development cannot be measured by economic progress alone but must also reflect how well every segment of society is empowered to grow and contribute.
The Sarawak Government, he affirmed, remains committed to supporting initiatives that advance an inclusive community, pledging that such efforts must extend beyond events and be embedded into policies, education, workplaces and everyday life.
Tributes were also paid to the parents, teachers and coaches whose dedication has shaped the athletes’ journeys, with him describing their spirit and courage as a source of inspiration to all.
Held in Bintulu from April 24 to 26, this year’s Games mark a historic milestone as this is the first time that the national event is being hosted in Sarawak.
A total of 705 participants are competing across eight sports – athletics, swimming, bocce, badminton, basketball, football, table tennis and bowling.
The opening ceremony was also attended by Women, Early Childhood and Community Well-being Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, Deputy Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam, Organising Chairman Datuk Ruslan Abdul Ghani, and other distinguished guests.
